In the 1980's, the HIV/AIDs viruses killed people by the thousands in america and almost destroyed an entire generation of the gay community.
The sexual revolution began in the 1960's and was an important drive for sexual equality. In urban areas like New York and San Francisco, equality was easier to have, giving gay men a new freedom. The movement caused gay people to flock to these areas to love as they choose. Then, HIV began to spread throughout North America. The disease was termed "gay cancer" by the CDC itself. The first cases came about in 1981 and Reagan refused to mention anything about the epidemic. Many of his supporters believed AIDs were God's wrath upon gay men. Everywhere people died and scientist requested more funding only to be responded with indifference. Over 4,000 cases occurred along with over 1,000 deaths and Reagan still said nothing. The constant avoidance by the government is what pushed activist to radicalize their efforts. Picketing the white house, marches, etc, all to just to get people to listen. Trumps presidency has definitely caused some problems for the movement. His administration has taken steps to dismantle laws that protect LGBTQ. He even goes as far as to establish "religious freedom" laws that defend health workers who object to treating LGBT patients. As long as people like Trump and Reagan find their ways into power, we, as a nation, can never move forward.
The sexual revolution began in the 1960's and was an important drive for sexual equality. In urban areas like New York and San Francisco, equality was easier to have, giving gay men a new freedom. The movement caused gay people to flock to these areas to love as they choose. Then, HIV began to spread throughout North America. The disease was termed "gay cancer" by the CDC itself. The first cases came about in 1981 and Reagan refused to mention anything about the epidemic. Many of his supporters believed AIDs were God's wrath upon gay men. Everywhere people died and scientist requested more funding only to be responded with indifference. Over 4,000 cases occurred along with over 1,000 deaths and Reagan still said nothing. The constant avoidance by the government is what pushed activist to radicalize their efforts. Picketing the white house, marches, etc, all to just to get people to listen. Trumps presidency has definitely caused some problems for the movement. His administration has taken steps to dismantle laws that protect LGBTQ. He even goes as far as to establish "religious freedom" laws that defend health workers who object to treating LGBT patients. As long as people like Trump and Reagan find their ways into power, we, as a nation, can never move forward.